The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Anambra State Police Command have called on youths of higher learning to shun all manner of social vices.
The summit which was held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka last week, drew participants from different universities, polytechnics and colleges of education across the state with its theme; “The Importance of a Safe Society and The Role of Nigerian Students/Youth in the Society of our Campuses”.
Speaking during the opening remark presented by the Senate President of NANS, Comrade Chuka Okafor, he stated that there was no need to feign ignorance of the dangers of cultism, drug abuse and any other vices in our society.
“Things have deteriorated so badly in recent times and we feel that it’s high time we came together to brainstorm and continue to fashion out ways we can assist the government in their efforts to nip the matter in the bud.
“Community safety not only is it about reducing and preventing injury and crime, it is about building strong, cohesive, vibrant, participatory communities. This means the perception of safety is as important as measuring injury and crime rates”.
“Comrades, the solution for security involves all of us and we must strive to solve it. The leadership of NANS is prepared and ready to lead this fight. What we need is for our leaders to open the door of continuous engagement so that we can neutralize the work of the evil men”, he added.
Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Chris Owolabi, represented by the Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, Emma Ogbuanya, however urged victims of cultism and drug abuse who wish to desist from such illegal acts to report themselves for proper counseling while noting its resultant effects as violence, death, imprisonment, rustication from the university among others.
Earlier, key note speaker, Mr. Obiora Agbasimelo urged parents to inculcate good morals in their children at early stage, as family is the functional unit of the society.
The Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Professor Charles Esimone, represented by the Dean Students Affairs, Professor Nonso Achebe, said it is necessary to inform the youths of the dangers of cultism and other ills, urging the participants to put into practice and take the message of the summit to their various institutions.
